Heartache for men's side as they lose 4-3 in a penalty shootout at the World University Games

The Ireland men suffered heartbreak at the hands of France in their the World University Games quarter final tie in Kazan.

The game finished level at 0-0 after extra time but Danny Crowley's side were then edged out 4-3 on penalties.

Jonny Addis, Correy Davidson and Josh O'Shea all converted their spot kicks but Darren Forsyth had his effort saved by the French 'keeper while Paul Malone shot over.

A fairly even first half saw few chances created by either side.

Ireland then went on to dominated the second half and had a couple of decent opportunities to win the game.

But the closest they came to breaking the deadlock was on 80 minute when Malone played the ball wide to Reece McEnteer and his inch perfect cross was headed just past the post by O'Shea.

The Irish are back in action on Sunday when they play Malaysia in the 5-8th place play offs (2.0 Irish).

Crowley found it difficult to conceal his huge disappointment at their unlucky exit

'I'm gutted for the lads, they put in another monumental effort. We dominated France throughout the game and I thought we deserved to win it but of course penalties are a lottery.

"It's not often that Ireland outplay France at any level and the lads who were playing their fourth game in the space of a week deserve great credit considering the really hot conditions. Our aim now is to finish fifth'. said Crowley.